Bandera Pro Rodeo Blog

Some may think barrel racing is the fastest event at the rodeo, but they have overlooked steer wrestling. The fastest rodeo event is, in fact, steer wrestling. The world record for steer wrestling is a mere 2.4 seconds which brings speed and strength to the forefront of this event. But what exactly is steer wrestling.The objective of the event is to use strength and technique to wrestle a steer to the ground as quickly as possible.

So, what’s the big deal?

The big deal is the sheer weight and size of the animal being pulled to the ground. More often than not, the steer weighs as much as twice that of the cowboy and their impact comes at a momentous 30 miles per hour. This mixture of speed and weight makes precision the cowboy, or bulldogger’s, greatest tool.Let’s talk more about the bulldogger.

The bulldogger is one of the most skilled cowboys in the rodeo. He starts the event on horseback in a box. A breakaway rope barrier is attached to the steer and stretched across the open end of the box. The steer gets a head start and when he outruns the rope barrier the bulldogger takes off with lightening speed in pursuit of the steer.

Next the bulldogger uses impeccable timing and balance as he slides down from his galloping horse and hooks the steer in his arms. He uses strength, leverage and momentum to ease the animal onto the ground. The work isn’t done yet, though. The steer must be on it’s side with all four feet pointing in the same direction.

Join us May 25, 26 and 27 to watch Steer Wrestling up close at Mansfield Park!​Come back next week for another event run down!